Verse 12 is one of the toughest verses to think about that I know of in the New Testament. I think of myself as having tried to live godly in Christ Jesus, yet I cannot think of a time in my life when I suffered persecution because of it. I know the scripture is true, so, that makes me wonder whether I am truly living a godly life. In fact, most of the Christians I know have never suffered for their faith. I know that there are certainly different levels of persecution, and I know that it does not say that Christians will suffer every day. Even Paul had some days that he didn't suffer, but the promise is there that "all", "godly", "shall suffer persecution". Maybe my time is coming. Maybe yours is coming, too. I know verse 13 certainly describes the climate of our society. We are never taught to go out and seek to be persecuted, rather we are to live at peace with all men as much as it is possible without compromising the truth.
If persecution is coming your way in the near future, are you ready? Take a look back at yesterday's post and follow as we try to prepare for what the inspired apostle, Paul, promised would happen. Ready or not here it comes.
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